Miyazaki as a feminist

“Unlike in countless western animated films, the princesses in his films are not typecast as just a love interest or damsel in distress.  In Nausicaa of the Valley of the Wind, Nausicaa is “physically tough, able to handle a sword…very athletic…[and, on top of it all,] she is a very gifted aviator” (McCarthy 79).  She is someone who her people rely on, and is ultimately the only person who is able to help when they are in danger of being run down by a pack of angry, giant bugs.  Despite all this, she still retains her girlish charm.  It is rare to see such strength in a young princess in an animated film.”

(originally posted by targaryenist)